NVC Phi Theta Kappa Chapter Receives Statewide Recognition

The Northwest Vista College Phi Theta Kappa chapter, Beta Lambda Upsilon (BLU), received statewide recognition at the Phi Theta Kappa Texas Regional Convention held March 22 - 25 in Odessa, TX. The chapter’s delegation consisted of chapter president Allen Haas, Jr., chapter secretary Christina Kuchler and chapter co-advisor Kevin Kelley.

During the first general session, BLU received the first of many recognitions bestowed upon the chapter during the convention. Most notably, BLU was recognized as a Three-Star Chapter, which is a major accomplishment given that BLU was chartered less than four years ago. During the convention, Allen Haas, Jr. was inducted into the Phi Theta Kappa District Five elite “Hall of Honor,” and Kevin Kelley was awarded the prestigious Horizon Award, which recognizes outstanding chapter advisors.

The highlight of the convention was the Awards Banquet and Gala, at which BLU received the coveted Hallmark Award for chapter leadership. BLU distinguished itself by displaying extraordinary leadership in 2006 by hosting the Phi Theta Kappa District Five convention, co-hosting the Texas Honors Institute (for which the chapter was awarded a plaque that is on display in the President’s Office), conducting presentations at Phi Theta Kappa events, and participating in numerous philanthropic endeavors.

NVC Names Courtney as New Director of Institutional Research

Dr. Katherine Courtney has begun work as NVC's new director of institutional research in the performance excellence area. She will be leading the area which is responsible for alignment of measures and collection and analysis of data for the strategic areas, day-to-day operations, accreditation needs, regulatory requirements and ad hoc requests.

Ybarra Receives Chairs' Award for Outstanding Support

At the annual ACCD Council of Chairs luncheon, PAC Budget Officer Erlinda Ybarra was one of the recipients of the Chairs' Award for Outstanding Support. The award recognizes an employee who is of great help and service to the work of the Chairs—someone who has "helped support chairpersons by providing information, training in policy procedures and going that 'extra step' in ensuring the success of their job duties and service to their department."